Indians hire Francona as next manager

Francona, who currently serves as an ESPN analyst, led the Boston Red Sox to two World Series championships (2004, 2007). A formal announcement will be made on Monday.

Francona will replace Manny Acta, who was fired in September. Sandy Alomar Jr., who was the interim manager, was also an candidate for the job.

Francona managed the Red Sox for eight years. He went 744-552, making the playoffs five out of eight seasons.

"It's a good story, almost a family feeling," Francona said after his interview on Friday. "I don't think you can take a job because of that, but it still means a lot to me. Because of Chris and Mark and my relationship, I am excited to try to tackle, or attempt to tackle, every challenge that comes our way and do it together."